Are You Segmenting Your Network? If Not, You Should Be

Alright, let’s break down network segmentation from our perspective, focusing on traffic flows and why they need to be separated. Also, think of your family (Mom, Dad, Brother(s), Sister(s), roommates, friends, etc., on your network at any given time. AND don’t forget your thieving next door neighbor. Oh & come on! You don’t know who’s jumping on your Wi-Fi! For most of us our go to network!

Imagine your Home Network and think of it as a very basic example and 192.168.x.x or 172.16 networks – but easily found out these days.

Your Devices:

• Desktop(s) & Laptop(s) for work, browsing
• Smart Home Command Devices – Apple HomePod, Amazon Echo, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, etc
• Smartphone(s), Smartwatch & Tablet(s)
• Smart TV (streaming movies)
• Smart Speaker (playing music)
• Security Camera (monitoring your home)
• Internet Connection: The gateway to the outside world.

Apple’s AI Smart Home Command Center (2025)

Some effects Without Segmentation (Everything Mixed Together):

• All your devices are on the same “street” (network) – transmitting and receiving.
• If a device is compromised, the whole network is at risk. Malware can spread easily, giving hackers access to sensitive data and devices.
• If your laptop gets a virus, it could potentially affect your smart TV or security camera.
• If your smart TV is streaming 4K video, it could slow down your laptop’s internet browsing.
• Your security camera’s live feed is exposed to any device on the network.
• Sensitive data from your command centers’ devices or a standalone security camera or work laptop could be vulnerable to unauthorized access.

• Security Risk: If a device is compromised, the whole network is at risk.
• Performance Issues: Heavy traffic from one device can impact others. Today, streaming (host or app) has changed this landscape. Moving this traffic has become a necessity.
• Privacy Concerns: Sensitive data from your security command center & appliances and/or work laptop could be vulnerable.

Now, let’s introduce the types of segmentation, creating separate “streets” for different types of traffic.

• Physical Segmentation: Dividing the network into separate physical segments, each with its own set of devices.
• Virtual Segmentation: Using virtual local area networks (VLANs) or virtual private networks (VPNs) to segment the network.
• Logical Segmentation: Segmenting the network based on device type, user role, or application.

Example of VLAN segmentation & Source Network and Why:

1. Work Traffic (Laptop):
   • Why Segment? Work data is often sensitive and needs extra security.
   • Network:  WORK VLAN/Subnet
   • Needs: I want to make sure my work files are protected and my work video calls aren’t interrupted by other devices.
2. Entertainment Traffic (Smart TV, Smart Speaker):
   • Why Segment? Streaming video and audio consumes a lot of bandwidth, which can impact other devices.
   • Network:  Entertainment VLAN/Subnet
   • Needs: I want my movies and music to stream smoothly without buffering, and I don’t want them to slow down my work.
3. IoT (Internet of Things) Traffic (Security Camera, Smart Devices):
   • Why Segment? IoT devices often have security vulnerabilities. Isolating them limits the risk to other devices.
   • Network:  IoT VLAN/Subnet
   • Needs: I want to keep my security camera secure and prevent it from being used to attack my other devices.
4. Guest Network Traffic (Guest Wi-Fi):
   • Why Segment? To provide internet access to guests without giving them access to your main network.
   • Network: Guest VLAN/Subnet.
   • Needs: I want to let my friends use my wifi, but I don’t want them to have access to my personal files.

Not 100% safe yet, this small change would improve overall Security, provide more protection from viruses, malware, and unauthorized access. For our entertainment, smoother streaming, faster browsing, and fewer interruptions. Lastly, the protection of sensitive data and personal information. Knowing that the network is organized and secure.

Network segmentation is about creating order and security in your digital life. Just like you wouldn’t want all your belongings thrown into one big pile, you don’t want all your network traffic mixed together. By creating separate “streets” for different types of traffic, you can enhance security, improve performance, and protect your privacy.

This Business-Class Managed Cisco switch supports VLAN configuration:

• Cisco Business CBS220-24T-4G Smart Switch | 24 Port GE | 4x1G SFP | 3-Year Limited Hardware Warranty (CBS220-24T-4G-NA)
  • Link: https://a.co/d/14dHbKv
  • The Cisco Business CBS220-24T-4G Smart Switch offers 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and supports VLANs, allowing you to segment your network for improved security and performance.